Automated drilling equipment
Technical Specifications – Automated Drilling System
The table below shows specifications for a Level 3 (full automation) system on a 5,000m land rig. Customized per rig.
| System Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Control platform | Siemens S7‑1500 or Rockwell CompactLogix |
| HMI | 19″ touchscreen + redundant 12″ backup |
| Auto‑driller | WOB 5k‑100k lbs, RPM 0‑220, anti‑stick‑slip |
| Top drive control | Torque 25k‑135k ft‑lbs, RPM 0‑250, auto‑stabbing |
| Drawworks control | Auto‑trip speed (max 150 ft/min), anti‑slip, auto‑brake |
| Iron roughneck | 60k‑160k ft‑lbs, torque‑turns logging |
| Pipe handling | Integrated catwalk, racking, elevator control |
| Connection time (5″ DP) | 50‑60 seconds (auto sequence) |
| Tripping speed | 25‑30 stands/hour (auto‑trip) |
| Remote cabin distance | Up to 100 m wired, unlimited via network |
| CCTV cameras | 4‑8 (day/night, zoom) |
| Data logging | 1,000+ channels, 10 Hz, USB/4G/5G |
| Safety integrity | SIL 2 (IEC 61508) for ESD functions |
| Power requirement | 24V DC for controls, 480V AC for equipment |
| Operating temp | -20°C to +50°C standard; -40°C arctic option |
| Certifications | API 7K, 4F, ISO 9001, optional ATEX |
Applications
| Rig Type | Recommended Automation Level | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Land drilling – standard depth | Level 2 (semi‑auto) | Reduce floor crew, consistent connections |
| Land deep / HPHT | Level 3 (full automation) | Torque‑turns compliance, auto‑driller optimization |
| Offshore platform | Level 3 with remote cabin | Remove personnel from platform edge, harsh environment |
| Drillship / semi‑sub | Level 4 (autonomous) | Remote office supervision, reduce personnel offshore |
| Shale gas multi‑well pad | Level 2 or 3 | Fast pad moves, repeatable sequences |
| Unmanned / minimally manned rig | Level 4 | 1‑2 operators per shift, office‑based driller |
| Workover rigs (limited automation) | Level 1 | Remote operation of roughneck and catwalk |
Product Types – Automation Levels as Product Packages
We offer automation as upgrade packages for existing rigs, or as integrated systems for new builds:
| Package | Level | Components Included | Typical Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auto‑Base | 1 | Remote control for iron roughneck, catwalk, top drive (existing equipment) | $150k – $300k |
| Auto‑Drill | 2 | Auto‑Base + auto‑driller, auto‑slips, drawworks interface | $400k – $700k |
| Auto‑Trip | 3 | Auto‑Drill + auto‑connection sequence, auto‑trip, integrated HMI | $800k – $1.5M |
| Auto‑Complete | 4 | Auto‑Trip + AI optimization, remote supervision, full data analytics | $1.5M – $3.0M |
Why Choose SJ Petro for Automated Drilling Equipment?
1. Field‑Proven Automation – Over 50 rigs upgraded to Level 2 or higher in Sinopec fleet. Thousands of automated runs performed.
2. Open Architecture – We use standard industrial PLCs and open protocols (Modbus, OPC UA). You are not locked into proprietary black boxes.
3. Integrated with Any Rig – We do not require a new rig. Our automation retrofits to most existing top drives, drawworks, and pipe handling equipment.
4. One Supplier for All Automation – Top drive, drawworks, pipe handling, BOP – all from one control platform. Single warranty, single support number.
5. Data Analytics Included – No extra fee for data logging and reporting. You get full EDR functionality with every automation package.
6. Remote Support – Our engineers can log into your control system (with your permission) to troubleshoot, update software, or optimize parameters.
7. Global Service Network – Field service engineers based in Houston, Dubai, Singapore for on‑site support. 24/7 hotline.
8. Scalable Investment – Start with Level 1, upgrade to Level 3 later – same hardware platform. No obsolescence.
9. Sinopec Engineering Heritage – Developed in partnership with Sinopec’s drilling division – tested on hundreds of wells.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the difference between "automated drilling equipment” and individual automated components?
Individual components (auto‑catwalk, auto‑roughneck) work independently. Automated drilling equipment integrates all components into a single control system that sequences the entire drilling and tripping process – the driller presses one button to make a connection or trip out.
Q2: Can your automation be retrofitted to an older rig with mixed brands (e.g., National Oilwell top drive, Weatherford iron roughneck)?
Yes – we interface with most major brands via hardwired I/O or serial communication. A site survey is required to map existing equipment.
Q3: How much crew reduction can I expect?
Level 2 (semi‑auto): reduce floor crew by 2‑4. Level 3 (full auto): reduce by 4‑6. Level 4: reduce by 6‑8. Typical rig crew size (floor + driller) drops from 10‑12 to 4‑6 at Level 3.
Q4: Does the system work with top drive?
Yes – we control most AC and DC top drives. Our auto‑driller sends setpoints to the top drive VFD for precise rotation and torque control.
Q5: What is the auto‑trip speed?
25‑30 stands per hour for 3‑joint stands (5″ DP). Faster than most manual crews, with zero fatigue.
Q6: Can the system operate with no driller on site (remote office supervision)?
Yes – Level 4 allows a driller to monitor multiple rigs from an office. The system handles routine operations; the driller intervenes only for exceptions.
Q7: How do you handle safety with automation?
Multiple layers: red zone detection (motion sensors stop auto sequences), hardwired E‑stop hierarchy, manual override for every function, and SIL 2 certified safety logic.
Q8: What training is provided?
2‑3 weeks for drillers (classroom + simulator). 1 week for maintenance technicians (PLC, sensors, hydraulics). On‑site coaching during first automated well.
Q9: What is the typical payback period for automation?
Labor savings alone: 12‑24 months on a 2‑rig fleet (based on 4 fewer people per rig at $150k/year each). Additional savings from reduced NPT, lower maintenance, and consistent performance shorten payback further.
Q10: Does the system require an internet connection?
No – it can operate fully offline. Internet is only needed for remote support or office data transmission (optional).
Q11: What happens if the control system fails during a trip?
Manual backup controls (joysticks, pushbuttons) are provided for all critical functions – top drive, drawworks, and BOP. The rig can continue operation in manual mode until the PLC is repaired.
Q12: How do I get a quote for automated drilling equipment?
Provide: rig type, current equipment list (top drive, drawworks, iron roughneck, catwalk), desired automation level (1‑4), and any special requirements (offshore, arctic, etc.). We will respond with a proposal and fixed price within 10 business days.
